Black Panther Star Honors Muhammad Ali in New Set Photo

Marvel’s movie game is at an all-time high, cranking out superhero hit after hit. From Avengers to Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel’s combination of humor and action sequences has audience coming back again and again. The only complaint, really, has been the lack of diversity amongst the heroes, stemming back to decades ago, when the characters were first developed. Marvel Comics has taken steps to address the issue, though, creating new takes on old characters, like Miles Morales as Spider-Man, Amadeus Cho as the Hulk, and Riri Williams as Iron Man.

The films, however, have been casting based upon original designs, and Marvel Studios has even come under fire for “whitewashing” in the case of The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton) in Doctor Strange. Now, with Black Panther on its way, audiences are excited to see the story that organically reflects diversity in fun and exciting superhero fashion.

The film is currently in production and several photos have graced us from behind the scenes. The latest comes from star Chadwick Boseman’s Twitter page, where he posted a photo wearing a Muhammad Ali jacket accompanied by the quote, “Don’t count the days, make the days count.” Check out the photo below:

The photo is enough to send chills down any fan’s spine, with the tribute from one iconic fighter (albeit fictional) to another. The quote is inspirational to followers, but is especially pertinent to the production. The cast and crew have been shooting since January, and it’s no secret that long days and constant travel can wear on a performer. Boseman’s reminder to stay strong and grateful despite obstacles is heartwarming and important. Coming around the bend to the final stretch of production, his message might just be the encouragement that everyone needs.

A leader in his own right, Boseman lists himself as a writer and director in addition to an actor, having graduated in 2000 from Howard University with a BFA in Directing. He is known for portraying Jackie Robinson in 42 (2013), James Brown in Get on Up (2014), so he’s no stranger to inhabiting powerful roles. Perhaps Boseman has learned a thing or two about strength and endurance through such roles, qualities that are essential to T’Challa. We have spent time with the hero already in Captain America: Civil War, and fans raved about Boseman’s performance. With what we’ve seen from Black Panther so far, it looks like Marvel will not disappoint.